Mr. Rico Tan, who arrived at Shalhevet Oct. 19 following the unexpected departure of Mr. St. Germaine’s, did not return for the second semester. 

Mr. St. Germaine was teaching chemistry, math, and physics courses this year before leaving for Bellevue Wash., just after Sukkot break, just three weeks into the school year. His last day was Sept. 17. 

Mr. Tan was one of two teachers hired in October to take over his classes and taught Geometry, Advanced Geometry, and SAS Physics. 

Dr. Rod Hori, the other new science teacher, still remains at Shalhevet teaching one honors and three regular chemistry classes. 

In a Jan. 13 email announcing Mr. Tan’s departure, Principal Mr. Daniel Weslow also announced his replacement, Mr. Juan Verduzco.  

After graduating from California State University Long Beach, Mr. Verduzco moved to Dallas, Texas,  and taught at a public school called Thomas Jefferson High School as part of the Teach for America public service program. While teaching Algebra 2 in Texas, he started taking classes at Southern Methodist University where he earned both his teaching credential and a Masters degree in STEM Education.

“He has found great joy in building relationships with students, families, and staff in these communities and providing an equitable education to traditionally underserved students,” wrote Mr. Weslow. 

Meanwhile, Ms. Jasmine Ezagui, who was hired as a Project Manager at the start of this school year to coordinate events such as the Glouberman basketball tournament, has also left, not returning for second semester.